Chelsea have revived their interest in AC Milan winger Rafael Leao, according to reports in the Italian media.
The Blues made a move for the Portuguese international soon after the Boehly/Clearlake takeover in the summer of 2022.
However, despite claims that a bid in the region of €70m to €80m was lodged, Milan were not interested in selling him at the time.
The situation is very different now, with Tuttosport (via TMW) now reporting that Leao will be on the market at the end of the season.
Chelsea are one of 3 teams weighing up offers
Leao has had a difficult end to the season, having not scored a goal since the start of March. He has found the back of the net 10 times and provided 3 assists in all competitions, but Milan are said to be seriously contemplating a sale.
It is believed that the Blues, Manchester United and Barcelona are keeping close tabs on developments ahead of the summer transfer window.
Leao’s asking price is significantly below his release clause
The forward ended speculation about his future back in 2023 when he signed a new five-year contract, which included a hefty €175m (£151m) buyout fee.
It was never expected that anyone would match the required price, and it was clearly put in place to scare off potential suitors.
However, Tuttosport now believe that Leao could be available for less than a third of that figure. Milan are set to listen to offers for between €50m (£43m) and €60m (£52m).
The left wing is a position that manager Xabi Alonso will want to strengthen. Jamie Gittens has struggled for form and fitness, while there is already speculation that Alejandro Garnacho will not stay at Stamford Bridge, despite only arriving from United last year.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here
